Forum: It took too long for arsonist to stand trial

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Journal Star

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Posted Aug. 5, 2014 at 6:59 PM

Posted Aug. 5, 2014 at 6:59 PM

Regarding the Aunterrio Barney trial, I find it very disturbing that our justice system, which I do believe is the best in the world, would permit a suspected murderer to wait four years before coming to trial.

What happened to our right to an expeditious trial? What about the rights of the four victims’ families to expeditious closure?

Just seems odd that our judicial system would allow this. How many people can actually remember what happened last year, let alone four years ago? I am sure the defense in these kinds of cases hopes that stories will conflict due to lack of accurate memory. In some, witnesses may have even died. That our justice system allows this is just as criminal.

I also find it rather amusing that in the current Barney case, he will be sentenced to life in prison, giving him lifelong shelter, clothing, three square meals and health care. It is an amazing system that we have allowed to evolve.